Chakwera steps down as Malawi Assemblies of God president: To concentrate on front-line politics

Man of the moment, Rev. Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has stepped down as president of the Malawi Assemblies of God to concentrate on front-line politics as he is aspiring to lead Malawi Congress Party (MCP).

Chakwera confirmed that he formally relinquishes his post on May 14 after serving on that role for 24 years.

“ I am leaving my position as President of the Malawi Assemblies of God from May 14,” said Chakwera.

“I made the announcement regarding my retirement to the leadership of the church so that I can ably pursue the position of the presidency in MCP.

“I did indicate earlier on that I would resign as president of the church to allow smooth leadership transition in the church.”

Rev Chakwera: Hasretired early from his church position

He said the move is meant to enable him concentrate on front-line politics.

Chakwera nonetheless said he is still God’s minister who is going to serve God’s people in a different context other than the church.

The cleric said: “I’ve always been a politician as a preacher, as an organiser, a mobiliser and a person who works with people.”

He also confirmed what Nyasa Times reported on Thursday that he has also stepped down as chairman of Malawi National Council of Sports.

At the forthcoming MCP convention which was postponed last week, Chakwera is going to face seven contestants for opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) presidency among them former Farmers Union of Malawi president Felix Jumbe, former MCP secretary general Betson Majoni, former cabinet minister Jodder Kanjere, retired chief justice Lovemore Munlo and party’s incumbent president and Malawi’s longest serving politician John Tembo.